The Volkswagen Passat is sophisticated and serene – a spacious sedan offering plush accommodation and poised dynamics. Yes, it’s unmistakably premium, but it’s held back by a mainstream image. This week we test the VW Passat 2.0 TDI Executive DSG.

Derived from the hugely popular Ford Ranger, the Ford Everest SUV combines bakkie-style ruggedness with car-like amenities in an appealing go-anywhere package. Does the smaller-engined Ford Everest 2.2 XLS 4×4 have enough urge on tap, though?

Last year, the feisty Opel Mokka was a member of our long-term test fleet, and were impressed by its combination of verve, specification and versatility. It’s since been replaced by the Mokka X, which retains the same underpinnings, but gets sharper looks. We put the Opel Mokka 1.4T Cosmo version through its paces.

News from the RPM TV long-term garage is that our Mini Cooper Clubman has completed its tenure in our fleet. We’ve come to enjoy the gruff charm of the Cooper’s 1,5-litre three-cylinder turbo engine, and found this second-generation version more versatile and adept than the first.

Our news coverage includes details of another Mini – this time the supersized Mini Countryman, which made its local debut last week. And we show the latest addition to the Mercedes-AMG GT range: a ravishing roadster.

This week’s show premieres a half-hour earlier than usual, at 20h00 on SuperSport 8 on Wednesday 5 April. As last-minute changes to the broadcast schedule are frequent, please check the latest transmission schedule under ‘Motorsport’ on the SuperSport website’s ‘TV’ section, or the DStv Electronic Programme Guide.

If you have a PVR decoder, set it to record the entire RPM TV series, and never miss an episode! You can also catch us on DSTV CatchUp, under the ‘Motor’ category.

RPM TV Schedule

The Volkswagen Golf remains the compact hatchback benchmark, but the company isn’t resting on its laurels. The current Golf 7 has just received an upgrade offering enhanced aesthetics, smarter interiors and some drivetrain changes. We test-drive the latest VW Golf … Read More